McLaren to run one-off livery for Alonso

McLaren has unveiled a commemorative livery for Fernando Alonso as the Spaniard heads in to his final Formula 1 start at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The papaya car will feature red, yellow, and blue stripes across its engine cover replicate those of Alonso’s helmet, which pay homage to his home region of Asturias in northern Spain.

An insignia will also adorn the nose section of Alonso’s car in front of the cockpit.

“We’re incredibly pleased and proud to be able to race a special one-off livery for Fernando in Abu Dhabi this weekend. We want his last grand prix to feel special in every way, and this was just one of the ways we could reflect that,” said McLaren boss Zak Brown.

“We worked closely and collaboratively with Fernando, and then with the FIA and Formula 1 to make the change for this one race, and they were all hugely supportive of the move.

“Hopefully, this will give Fernando’s fans a little something extra to look forward to at what is bound to be an especially emotional weekend.”

Alonso made his F1 debut with Minardi in 2001 before joining Renault, winning back-to-back championships in 2005 and 2006.

In 313 grands prix the 37-year-old has claimed 32 wins and 97 podiums, his last success coming at the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix while driving for Ferrari.